A Home For All

Diversity & Inclusion Committee

Empowering Real Estate For All

Diversity and Inclusion in Real Estate

At the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, we believe that fostering a diverse and inclusive real estate industry leads to stronger, more vibrant communities. Our dedication to diversity is more than just words—it's evident in our advocacy for fair housing and our commitment to ensuring every member feels respected and valued. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, we actively work to remove barriers, promote equity, and create meaningful opportunities for all real estate professionals, ensuring that our association reflects the diverse communities we serve.

Education & Diversity Training

As a REALTOR®, you will work with clients from a variety of backgrounds throughout your career. Upholding the REALTOR® Code of Ethics means treating all clients with fairness and respect, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The commitment to diversity and equality in real estate extends beyond the protections of the Fair Housing Act, reflecting a deep dedication to inclusive practices. These DEI courses are designed to equip REALTOR® leaders with a comprehensive understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with insights into the social psychology that can impact the effectiveness of DEI efforts.

Fair Housing Training Requirement

REALTORS® must complete Fair Housing/Anti-Bias Training upon becoming members and every three years, aligned with the Code of Ethics training timeline. This requirement, beginning January 1, 2025, and due by December 31, 2027, is in addition to the Code of Ethics training. The courses must meet the National Association of REALTORS®' specific objectives and criteria. Qualifying courses include At Home with Diversity, Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing, Fairhaven, GRI 101, and Fair Housing: Be the Change.

At Home with Diversity® (AHWD)

The At Home with Diversity® certification course is designed to equip you with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving multicultural market. You'll gain a deeper understanding of diversity sensitivity, how it relates to U.S. fair housing laws in your business, and learn strategies for establishing professional guidelines when working with clients in the increasingly diverse real estate landscape.

Fairhaven

Engage in an immersive fair housing simulation designed for REALTORS® that uses storytelling to help identify, prevent, and address discriminatory practices. In this interactive online training, participants work against the clock to sell homes in the fictional town of Fairhaven while confronting discrimination. The experience also includes walking in the shoes of a homebuyer facing bias, with customized feedback provided for application in daily business. 

Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing

Even with a commitment to fair housing, unconscious biases can sometimes lead us astray. This NAR certificate course helps REALTORS® recognize and interrupt biased thinking to avoid fair housing pitfalls. Participants will explore the mind science behind identity, understand how implicit bias affects interactions, and engage in exercises to improve communication with diverse clients. This three-hour course is available online or in person and may qualify for CE credit.

Take the Challenge

2025 Diversity Challenge

Starting January 1, 2025, all NAR members must complete 2 hours of Fair Housing training—a vital step in advancing fairness and inclusivity in real estate. At RASM, we’re taking it a step further with the 2025 Diversity Challenge to honor members who go above and beyond in their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

How to Participate:

1. Complete the required 2-hour Fair Housing training

2. Take two additional diversity-focused classes

Eligible Courses:

• At Home With Diversity®

• Fairhaven

• Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing

• GRI 101

• Be the Change

• ADA & Commercial Real Estate

• REALTOR® L.E.A.D. Courses

• Accommodations for Service Animals in Housing

Others may qualify upon approval

Those who complete the challenge will receive:

• A Diversity Pin
• A Certificate of Achievement
• Recognition in Elevate magazine

National and State Resources

Explore essential tools and information from leading national and state organizations that focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. These resources provide valuable guidance for real estate professionals committed to fostering fair housing practices, eliminating barriers, and creating a more inclusive industry.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Realtors®

Watch this video to recognize your biases and ensure fair treatment in the home-buying and selling process, while adhering to the National Association of Realtors’ Code of Ethics on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

An Overview of the Fair Housing Act

Watch this video to explore the Fair Housing Act, its significance in strengthening our industry and nation, and the ongoing efforts needed to promote equality and inclusion in housing.

The National Association of REALTORS® on Diversity and Inclusion

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) represents over 1.5 million REALTORS® nationwide and fosters a culture of diversity and inclusion, woven into its core values. Through collaboration and respect, NAR embraces perspectives from all backgrounds—regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other defining characteristics. This commitment to celebrating differences and unlocking potential helps NAR better serve its members as they assist Americans in achieving their dreams of homeownership.

For more details, visit NAR.

What Florida REALTORS® Need to Know About Fair Housing Laws

Florida's Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or familial status. This law ensures equal opportunity in housing-related transactions, such as renting, selling, or financing homes. Both federal and state fair housing laws apply, and they cover a wide range of discriminatory practices, from refusal to rent or sell to discriminatory advertising. Violations can result in penalties, and Florida Realtors are expected to comply with these laws to promote fair and equal access to housing.

For more details, visit Florida Realtors.

Questions?

Contact info@myrasm.com or call (941) 952-3400.

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Check Our Calendar

Find the latest classes and events offered by RASM by visiting our calendar.